Epithelialization of permanent stents

The permanent Urolume((TM)) Wallstent has been used for the relief of bladder outlet obstruction (BOO), detrusor-external sphincter dyssnergia (DESD), and recurrent bulbar urethral strictures, Because of its woven construction, it allows ingrowth of urothelial tissue, resulting in complete epithelialization by 6 to 12 months, Certain risk factors are associated with poor epithelialization that may lead to hyperplastic tissue growth and occlusion of the urethral lumen. We review the literature and discuss the 5-year results of the North American Multicenter Urolume((TM)) Trial with regard to epithelialization, hyperplastic tissue growth, and treatment of hyperplastic growth.